Disability in intergalactic environments : the representation of disability issues in Star Trek

Abstract

The science fiction series Star Trek is peopled with various humanoid species living and working together, reflecting the philosophy of its creator, Gene Rodenderry, that diversity is a strength to be celebrated. This is reflected in the Vulcan philosophy of 'Infinite Diversity in Infinite Combinations'. Among the issues of diversity that feature in many episodes there are those related to disabled people. On the whole, the representation of disability in Star Trek encourages the viewer to challenge stereotypes about people with disability and to see them not simply in terms of their impairments, but as people who go about their work in ways which are sometimes different from the norm; simply beings with ”differing abilities“. This is especially the case for people with sensory or mobility impairments. They may see in a different way, communicate in a different way or move around in a different way, but they still give a valid contribution, and in some episodes it is their very difference that saves the day. When it comes to intellectual disability, however, the representation takes on a more negative turn. This paper considers these different representations of disability in four episodes of Star Trek: The Masterpiece Society, Melora, Loud as a Whisper and Samaritan Snare.